Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo Sidelined by a Stye

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo recently underwent treatment for a recurring stye on his left eye, according to news reports, just weeks before the start of the 2015 NFL season. The football player reportedly will see an ophthalmologist for follow-up to ensure that the condition does not affect his performance on the field.

A stye is a red, painful lump near the edge of the eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple. They can be caused by a bacterial infection or blepharitis, a type of inflammation on the eyelid. Having diabetes or rosacea are other risk factors that can contribute to stye development.

Below are some tips to keep in mind if and when a stye develops:

Never squeeze or pop a stye.

Do not wear make-up or contact lenses until the area has fully healed.

An ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotic ointment if a stye does not improve after treatment with warm compresses, or if the stye keeps coming back.

It is important to check if the stye grows larger, as this could lead to vision complications such as chalazion.

When a stye comes back in the same place, you should see an ophthalmologist who can determine whether you need a biopsy to rule out more serious problems.

Learn more about styes and chalazia at these related pages on EyeSmart:

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